Cats have a relatively short lifespan, typically only around ten to fifteen years. As cat parents, we all strive to ensure they live a happy and fulfilling life. However, diseases can pose significant obstacles to their happiness, not only requiring substantial financial investment but also causing suffering for our beloved feline friends. In addition to providing proper nutrition and ample love in daily life, it’s essential to equip ourselves with knowledge to address sudden illnesses that may arise.
Just last week, I noticed that my Garfield cat, Pudge (the one in the picture), suddenly started urinating blood. Thankfully, he recovered after a week. So, I wanted to share with you all about the things related to feline urinary tract infections, hoping to help those of you dealing with a cat experiencing urinary issues or those interested in learning about prevention.
1. Why Do Cats Urinate Blood?
When cats urinate blood, it’s evident that there’s an issue with their urinary tract. According to statistics from the American DVM360 website, one of the most common diseases in cats in 2015 was feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). FLUTD encompasses various bladder and urethra diseases, including cystitis, urethritis, and urinary tract blockage. Among these, the most prevalent is idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which accounts for over half of FLUTD cases in cats under ten years old. Stones and infections are less common causes. Therefore, when a cat experiences urinary issues like blood in the urine or difficulty urinating, it’s highly likely due to idiopathic cystitis rather than stones or infections.
2. What Is FIC?
Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is a condition with no specific cause. It’s not merely a urinary disease but rather an inflammatory condition affecting the bladder, believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the adrenal glands’ cortisol secretion. Stress plays a significant role in exacerbating FIC, as stress hormones can affect bladder function and increase inflammation.
3. Symptoms of FIC
Feline idiopathic cystitis can manifest in various ways:
- Acute episodes of frequent urination, painful urination, and bloody urine.
- Frequent recurring episodes, sometimes occurring at regular intervals.
- Persistent symptoms that do not resolve quickly.
- Urinary obstruction, primarily seen in male cats.
4. Diagnosis of FIC
Diagnosing FIC typically involves ruling out other possible causes through urine tests and imaging studies:
- Urinalysis: Analyzing urine can provide valuable information about the presence of infection, crystals, and urinary pH levels.
- Imaging: X-rays and ultrasound scans can help identify bladder stones, urethral blockages, and kidney issues.
5. Treatment of FIC
Treatment for acute FIC episodes focuses on three main aspects: increasing water intake, reducing stress, and managing pain:
- Hydration: Encourage your cat to drink more water by offering wet food, flavored water, or adding broth to their meals.
- Stress Reduction: Create a calm and enriching environment for your cat, providing plenty of resources and opportunities for play and relaxation. Feliway diffusers can help reduce stress.
- Pain Management: Pain relief medications may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort during acute episodes.
6. Common Pitfalls in Treatment
- Avoid relying solely on antibiotics, as FIC is not typically caused by bacterial infection.
- Prescription diets may not be necessary unless your cat solely consumes dry food.
- Use caution with supplements claiming to dissolve stones or acidify urine, as they may not have scientific backing.
Understanding feline idiopathic cystitis and its management can significantly improve the quality of life for cats experiencing urinary issues. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking prompt veterinary care, and implementing appropriate management strategies, we can help our feline companions lead happier, healthier lives.